Search results for "Complex combining" in Home Design Ideas

This spacious, quiet southwest-facing 1-bedroom condo on Oak Bay Rockland border features an open floor plan. The cozy living/dining room includes a gas fireplace for winter nights & a beautiful Juliet balcony overlooking greenery and serenity. The large master bedroom easily fits a king-size bed and includes a tasteful 4-piece bathroom across the hall. Bright, U-shaped kitchen with sunny big window and lots of counter and cabinet space. Separate laundry room with hot water tank & plenty of storage could be a tiny utility room/pantry combo. If your working from home, this unit includes an office alcove with a built-in desk and cabinets adjacent to the main living area. The complex backs onto a park and is just a short walk to downtown, close to the hospital or ocean with many amenities and transit at the front door. The unit includes 1 space in a secure underground parking lot and 1 storage locker. A great combination of location and design in the popular sought-after building. Looking for an investment? This unit is currently has a fabulous tenant as some rentals are allowed.| Karen Love* (250) 727-5868 | RE/MAX Island Properties & www.KarenLove.com |

Homeowner Services of Michigan recently completed a comprehensive exterior restoration project for a professional building owned by a commercial property client. The client selected us for our ability to meet their specific needs and adhere to their timeline. A key requirement was to complete the project without disrupting the tenants of the complex.
We began by carefully removing the old, outdated siding. Our team ensured minimal disturbance to the tenants by scheduling work during off-peak hours and utilizing sound-dampening techniques. Once the old siding was removed, we prepared the building’s inner sheath and applied advanced weather-sealing techniques to protect against moisture and improve insulation.
Next, we installed high-quality HardieBoard cement composite siding in a deep slate blue color. This choice provided a modern and professional appearance. Our team ensured precise alignment and secure fastening for maximum durability.
To complete the look, we installed contrasting regal gold trim, gutters, and downspouts. The regal gold trim highlighted the building’s architectural features, while the matching gutters and downspouts ensured efficient water drainage and added to the building's aesthetic appeal.
The project was completed on time and within budget, with no disruption to the building’s tenants. The new exterior not only enhanced the building's curb appeal but also provided improved weather resistance and energy efficiency. The combination of deep slate blue HardieBoard siding and regal gold trim created a striking, professional look that perfectly aligned with the client’s vision.

Homeowner Services of Michigan recently completed a comprehensive exterior restoration project for a professional building owned by a commercial property client. The client selected us for our ability to meet their specific needs and adhere to their timeline. A key requirement was to complete the project without disrupting the tenants of the complex.
We began by carefully removing the old, outdated siding. Our team ensured minimal disturbance to the tenants by scheduling work during off-peak hours and utilizing sound-dampening techniques. Once the old siding was removed, we prepared the building’s inner sheath and applied advanced weather-sealing techniques to protect against moisture and improve insulation.
Next, we installed high-quality HardieBoard cement composite siding in a deep slate blue color. This choice provided a modern and professional appearance. Our team ensured precise alignment and secure fastening for maximum durability.
To complete the look, we installed contrasting regal gold trim, gutters, and downspouts. The regal gold trim highlighted the building’s architectural features, while the matching gutters and downspouts ensured efficient water drainage and added to the building's aesthetic appeal.
The project was completed on time and within budget, with no disruption to the building’s tenants. The new exterior not only enhanced the building's curb appeal but also provided improved weather resistance and energy efficiency. The combination of deep slate blue HardieBoard siding and regal gold trim created a striking, professional look that perfectly aligned with the client’s vision.
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Homeowner Services of Michigan recently completed a comprehensive exterior restoration project for a professional building owned by a commercial property client. The client selected us for our ability to meet their specific needs and adhere to their timeline. A key requirement was to complete the project without disrupting the tenants of the complex.
We began by carefully removing the old, outdated siding. Our team ensured minimal disturbance to the tenants by scheduling work during off-peak hours and utilizing sound-dampening techniques. Once the old siding was removed, we prepared the building’s inner sheath and applied advanced weather-sealing techniques to protect against moisture and improve insulation.
Next, we installed high-quality HardieBoard cement composite siding in a deep slate blue color. This choice provided a modern and professional appearance. Our team ensured precise alignment and secure fastening for maximum durability.
To complete the look, we installed contrasting regal gold trim, gutters, and downspouts. The regal gold trim highlighted the building’s architectural features, while the matching gutters and downspouts ensured efficient water drainage and added to the building's aesthetic appeal.
The project was completed on time and within budget, with no disruption to the building’s tenants. The new exterior not only enhanced the building's curb appeal but also provided improved weather resistance and energy efficiency. The combination of deep slate blue HardieBoard siding and regal gold trim created a striking, professional look that perfectly aligned with the client’s vision.

This spacious, quiet southwest-facing 1-bedroom condo on Oak Bay Rockland border features an open floor plan. The cozy living/dining room includes a gas fireplace for winter nights & a beautiful Juliet balcony overlooking greenery and serenity. The large master bedroom easily fits a king-size bed and includes a tasteful 4-piece bathroom across the hall. Bright, U-shaped kitchen with sunny big window and lots of counter and cabinet space. Separate laundry room with hot water tank & plenty of storage could be a tiny utility room/pantry combo. If your working from home, this unit includes an office alcove with a built-in desk and cabinets adjacent to the main living area. The complex backs onto a park and is just a short walk to downtown, close to the hospital or ocean with many amenities and transit at the front door. The unit includes 1 space in a secure underground parking lot and 1 storage locker. A great combination of location and design in the popular sought-after building. Looking for an investment? This unit is currently has a fabulous tenant as some rentals are allowed.| Karen Love* (250) 727-5868 | RE/MAX Island Properties & www.KarenLove.com |

This wonderful client returned to us for her living room remodel with the goal of transforming the space into a comfortable, stylish area for lounging and entertaining. The focal point of the room, the fireplace, became an ode to the client's father. At the time of the project’s start, he had recently passed away. Our client’s father had always believed that the space needed a fireplace, and this was a special implementation that we could make to honor that. Aside from creating an inviting and warm fireplace corner, the other goals of the project included a strategic working of aesthetic and form. As a first move, we removed a long wall at the entry of the space. This immediately created a more open and welcoming entry off the front door. Subtle division was still established here by integrating a new sofa and sofa back table. Another goal was to carry the luxe transitional feeling that we had previously developed in her upstairs bathroom renovation a few years prior down into the other public spaces of the home. On the fireplace, chenille white stacked stone was installed and paired with a custom wood mantle. Throughout the space, layers of texture, pattern and finishes were utilized to create a dynamic and elegant completion. We combined metal, wood, marble, limestone, chunky fabric knits, soft chenille, mother of pearl and rattan for a complex aesthetic language that is diverse and beautiful. As part of our final touches, we worked to brighten and lighten the space. We updated window coverings and installed new can lighting in the dining room and kitchen areas. The hardwood floors were refinished and paint was updated throughout. We also completed the space with seating appropriate for entertaining in a smaller space. For example, accent chairs in this room also function as dining chairs for the head of the table. It feels so fitting to have something that brings warmth into a space tied to our client's memory of their father and we are so honored to have had a part in creating something in honor of him.

This spacious, quiet southwest-facing 1-bedroom condo on Oak Bay Rockland border features an open floor plan. The cozy living/dining room includes a gas fireplace for winter nights & a beautiful Juliet balcony overlooking greenery and serenity. The large master bedroom easily fits a king-size bed and includes a tasteful 4-piece bathroom across the hall. Bright, U-shaped kitchen with sunny big window and lots of counter and cabinet space. Separate laundry room with hot water tank & plenty of storage could be a tiny utility room/pantry combo. If your working from home, this unit includes an office alcove with a built-in desk and cabinets adjacent to the main living area. The complex backs onto a park and is just a short walk to downtown, close to the hospital or ocean with many amenities and transit at the front door. The unit includes 1 space in a secure underground parking lot and 1 storage locker. A great combination of location and design in the popular sought-after building. Looking for an investment? This unit is currently has a fabulous tenant as some rentals are allowed.| Karen Love* (250) 727-5868 | RE/MAX Island Properties & www.KarenLove.com |

Sponsored
Fredericksburg, OH
High Point Cabinets
Columbus' Experienced Custom Cabinet Builder | 4x Best of Houzz Winner

This spacious, quiet southwest-facing 1-bedroom condo on Oak Bay Rockland border features an open floor plan. The cozy living/dining room includes a gas fireplace for winter nights & a beautiful Juliet balcony overlooking greenery and serenity. The large master bedroom easily fits a king-size bed and includes a tasteful 4-piece bathroom across the hall. Bright, U-shaped kitchen with sunny big window and lots of counter and cabinet space. Separate laundry room with hot water tank & plenty of storage could be a tiny utility room/pantry combo. If your working from home, this unit includes an office alcove with a built-in desk and cabinets adjacent to the main living area. The complex backs onto a park and is just a short walk to downtown, close to the hospital or ocean with many amenities and transit at the front door. The unit includes 1 space in a secure underground parking lot and 1 storage locker. A great combination of location and design in the popular sought-after building. Looking for an investment? This unit is currently has a fabulous tenant as some rentals are allowed.| Karen Love* (250) 727-5868 | RE/MAX Island Properties & www.KarenLove.com |

This 3,850-square-foot single-family home in New Jersey exemplifies modern design and architectural ingenuity. Built on a tight lot with stringent zoning regulations, the project posed unique challenges that were met with innovative solutions to deliver a truly remarkable residence tailored for modern home enthusiasts.
The home’s design embraces open spaces filled with natural light, creating a seamless integration between indoor and outdoor living. A thoughtful combination of materials—concrete, stucco, wood, and glass—come together to craft a sleek yet inviting aesthetic. Each material was carefully selected and positioned to enhance the overall structure and functionality of the house while contributing to its contemporary appeal.
One of the standout architectural features includes impressive cantilevers that not only enhance the home’s visual impact but also address complex structural challenges with sophistication. These bold design choices create a feeling of weightlessness and add to the dynamic character of the residence.
Despite the tight lot constraints, the layout maximizes every corner of the space without compromising comfort or style. A practical yet elegant floor plan ensures a sense of openness and fluidity throughout, providing ample areas for family living, entertaining, and relaxation.
This project demonstrates that thoughtful design and strategic engineering can overcome restrictive site limitations and zoning challenges to deliver a home that is both functional and stunningly modern. It is a testament to the possibilities of modern architecture and a celebration of creativity, engineering, and craftsmanship.

This wonderful client returned to us for her living room remodel with the goal of transforming the space into a comfortable, stylish area for lounging and entertaining. The focal point of the room, the fireplace, became an ode to the client's father. At the time of the project’s start, he had recently passed away. Our client’s father had always believed that the space needed a fireplace, and this was a special implementation that we could make to honor that. Aside from creating an inviting and warm fireplace corner, the other goals of the project included a strategic working of aesthetic and form. As a first move, we removed a long wall at the entry of the space. This immediately created a more open and welcoming entry off the front door. Subtle division was still established here by integrating a new sofa and sofa back table. Another goal was to carry the luxe transitional feeling that we had previously developed in her upstairs bathroom renovation a few years prior down into the other public spaces of the home. On the fireplace, chenille white stacked stone was installed and paired with a custom wood mantle. Throughout the space, layers of texture, pattern and finishes were utilized to create a dynamic and elegant completion. We combined metal, wood, marble, limestone, chunky fabric knits, soft chenille, mother of pearl and rattan for a complex aesthetic language that is diverse and beautiful. As part of our final touches, we worked to brighten and lighten the space. We updated window coverings and installed new can lighting in the dining room and kitchen areas. The hardwood floors were refinished and paint was updated throughout. We also completed the space with seating appropriate for entertaining in a smaller space. For example, accent chairs in this room also function as dining chairs for the head of the table. It feels so fitting to have something that brings warmth into a space tied to our client's memory of their father and we are so honored to have had a part in creating something in honor of him.

This spacious, quiet southwest-facing 1-bedroom condo on Oak Bay Rockland border features an open floor plan. The cozy living/dining room includes a gas fireplace for winter nights & a beautiful Juliet balcony overlooking greenery and serenity. The large master bedroom easily fits a king-size bed and includes a tasteful 4-piece bathroom across the hall. Bright, U-shaped kitchen with sunny big window and lots of counter and cabinet space. Separate laundry room with hot water tank & plenty of storage could be a tiny utility room/pantry combo. If your working from home, this unit includes an office alcove with a built-in desk and cabinets adjacent to the main living area. The complex backs onto a park and is just a short walk to downtown, close to the hospital or ocean with many amenities and transit at the front door. The unit includes 1 space in a secure underground parking lot and 1 storage locker. A great combination of location and design in the popular sought-after building. Looking for an investment? This unit is currently has a fabulous tenant as some rentals are allowed.| Karen Love* (250) 727-5868 | RE/MAX Island Properties & www.KarenLove.com |

This client grew up in this 1950’s family home and has now become owner in his adult life. Designing and remodeling this childhood home that the client was very bonded and familiar with was a tall order. This modern twist of original mid-century style combined with an eclectic fusion of modern day materials and concepts fills the room with a powerful presence while maintaining its clean lined austerity and elegance. The kitchen was part of a grander complete home re-design and remodel.
A modern version of a mid-century His and Hers grand master bathroom was created to include all the amenities and nothing left behind! This bathroom has so much noticeable and hidden “POW” that commands its peaceful spa feeling with a lot of attitude. Maintaining ultra-clean lines yet delivering ample design interest at every detail, This bathroom is eclectically a one of a kind luxury statement.
The concept in the laundry room was to create a simple, easy to use and clean space with ample storage and a place removed from the central part of the home to house the necessity of the cats and their litter box needs. There was no need for glamour in the laundry room yet we were able to create a simple highly utilitarian space.
If there is one room in the home that requires frequent visitors to thoroughly enjoy with a huge element of surprise, it’s the powder room! This is a room where you know that eventually, every guest will visit. Knowing this, we created a bold statement with layers of intrigue that would leave ample room for fun conversation with your guests upon their prolonged exit. We kept the lights dim here for that intriguing experience of crafted elegance and created ambiance. The walls of peeling metallic rust are the welcoming gesture to a powder room experience of defiance and elegant mystical complexity.
It's a lucky house guest indeed who gets to stay in this newly remodeled home. This on-suite bathroom allows them their own space and privacy. Both Bedroom and Bathroom offer plenty of storage for an extended stay. Rift White Oak cabinets and sleek Silestone counters make a lovely combination in the bathroom while the bedroom showcases textured white cabinets with a dark walnut wrap.
Photo credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

This client grew up in this 1950’s family home and has now become owner in his adult life. Designing and remodeling this childhood home that the client was very bonded and familiar with was a tall order. This modern twist of original mid-century style combined with an eclectic fusion of modern day materials and concepts fills the room with a powerful presence while maintaining its clean lined austerity and elegance. The kitchen was part of a grander complete home re-design and remodel.
A modern version of a mid-century His and Hers grand master bathroom was created to include all the amenities and nothing left behind! This bathroom has so much noticeable and hidden “POW” that commands its peaceful spa feeling with a lot of attitude. Maintaining ultra-clean lines yet delivering ample design interest at every detail, This bathroom is eclectically a one of a kind luxury statement.
The concept in the laundry room was to create a simple, easy to use and clean space with ample storage and a place removed from the central part of the home to house the necessity of the cats and their litter box needs. There was no need for glamour in the laundry room yet we were able to create a simple highly utilitarian space.
If there is one room in the home that requires frequent visitors to thoroughly enjoy with a huge element of surprise, it’s the powder room! This is a room where you know that eventually, every guest will visit. Knowing this, we created a bold statement with layers of intrigue that would leave ample room for fun conversation with your guests upon their prolonged exit. We kept the lights dim here for that intriguing experience of crafted elegance and created ambiance. The walls of peeling metallic rust are the welcoming gesture to a powder room experience of defiance and elegant mystical complexity.
It's a lucky house guest indeed who gets to stay in this newly remodeled home. This on-suite bathroom allows them their own space and privacy. Both Bedroom and Bathroom offer plenty of storage for an extended stay. Rift White Oak cabinets and sleek Silestone counters make a lovely combination in the bathroom while the bedroom showcases textured white cabinets with a dark walnut wrap.
Photo credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

Sponsored
Fredericksburg, OH
High Point Cabinets
Columbus' Experienced Custom Cabinet Builder | 4x Best of Houzz Winner

This client grew up in this 1950’s family home and has now become owner in his adult life. Designing and remodeling this childhood home that the client was very bonded and familiar with was a tall order. This modern twist of original mid-century style combined with an eclectic fusion of modern day materials and concepts fills the room with a powerful presence while maintaining its clean lined austerity and elegance. The kitchen was part of a grander complete home re-design and remodel.
A modern version of a mid-century His and Hers grand master bathroom was created to include all the amenities and nothing left behind! This bathroom has so much noticeable and hidden “POW” that commands its peaceful spa feeling with a lot of attitude. Maintaining ultra-clean lines yet delivering ample design interest at every detail, This bathroom is eclectically a one of a kind luxury statement.
The concept in the laundry room was to create a simple, easy to use and clean space with ample storage and a place removed from the central part of the home to house the necessity of the cats and their litter box needs. There was no need for glamour in the laundry room yet we were able to create a simple highly utilitarian space.
If there is one room in the home that requires frequent visitors to thoroughly enjoy with a huge element of surprise, it’s the powder room! This is a room where you know that eventually, every guest will visit. Knowing this, we created a bold statement with layers of intrigue that would leave ample room for fun conversation with your guests upon their prolonged exit. We kept the lights dim here for that intriguing experience of crafted elegance and created ambiance. The walls of peeling metallic rust are the welcoming gesture to a powder room experience of defiance and elegant mystical complexity.
It's a lucky house guest indeed who gets to stay in this newly remodeled home. This on-suite bathroom allows them their own space and privacy. Both Bedroom and Bathroom offer plenty of storage for an extended stay. Rift White Oak cabinets and sleek Silestone counters make a lovely combination in the bathroom while the bedroom showcases textured white cabinets with a dark walnut wrap.
Photo credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

This client grew up in this 1950’s family home and has now become owner in his adult life. Designing and remodeling this childhood home that the client was very bonded and familiar with was a tall order. This modern twist of original mid-century style combined with an eclectic fusion of modern day materials and concepts fills the room with a powerful presence while maintaining its clean lined austerity and elegance. The kitchen was part of a grander complete home re-design and remodel.
A modern version of a mid-century His and Hers grand master bathroom was created to include all the amenities and nothing left behind! This bathroom has so much noticeable and hidden “POW” that commands its peaceful spa feeling with a lot of attitude. Maintaining ultra-clean lines yet delivering ample design interest at every detail, This bathroom is eclectically a one of a kind luxury statement.
The concept in the laundry room was to create a simple, easy to use and clean space with ample storage and a place removed from the central part of the home to house the necessity of the cats and their litter box needs. There was no need for glamour in the laundry room yet we were able to create a simple highly utilitarian space.
If there is one room in the home that requires frequent visitors to thoroughly enjoy with a huge element of surprise, it’s the powder room! This is a room where you know that eventually, every guest will visit. Knowing this, we created a bold statement with layers of intrigue that would leave ample room for fun conversation with your guests upon their prolonged exit. We kept the lights dim here for that intriguing experience of crafted elegance and created ambiance. The walls of peeling metallic rust are the welcoming gesture to a powder room experience of defiance and elegant mystical complexity.
It's a lucky house guest indeed who gets to stay in this newly remodeled home. This on-suite bathroom allows them their own space and privacy. Both Bedroom and Bathroom offer plenty of storage for an extended stay. Rift White Oak cabinets and sleek Silestone counters make a lovely combination in the bathroom while the bedroom showcases textured white cabinets with a dark walnut wrap.
Photo credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

This client grew up in this 1950’s family home and has now become owner in his adult life. Designing and remodeling this childhood home that the client was very bonded and familiar with was a tall order. This modern twist of original mid-century style combined with an eclectic fusion of modern day materials and concepts fills the room with a powerful presence while maintaining its clean lined austerity and elegance. The kitchen was part of a grander complete home re-design and remodel.
A modern version of a mid-century His and Hers grand master bathroom was created to include all the amenities and nothing left behind! This bathroom has so much noticeable and hidden “POW” that commands its peaceful spa feeling with a lot of attitude. Maintaining ultra-clean lines yet delivering ample design interest at every detail, This bathroom is eclectically a one of a kind luxury statement.
The concept in the laundry room was to create a simple, easy to use and clean space with ample storage and a place removed from the central part of the home to house the necessity of the cats and their litter box needs. There was no need for glamour in the laundry room yet we were able to create a simple highly utilitarian space.
If there is one room in the home that requires frequent visitors to thoroughly enjoy with a huge element of surprise, it’s the powder room! This is a room where you know that eventually, every guest will visit. Knowing this, we created a bold statement with layers of intrigue that would leave ample room for fun conversation with your guests upon their prolonged exit. We kept the lights dim here for that intriguing experience of crafted elegance and created ambiance. The walls of peeling metallic rust are the welcoming gesture to a powder room experience of defiance and elegant mystical complexity.
It's a lucky house guest indeed who gets to stay in this newly remodeled home. This on-suite bathroom allows them their own space and privacy. Both Bedroom and Bathroom offer plenty of storage for an extended stay. Rift White Oak cabinets and sleek Silestone counters make a lovely combination in the bathroom while the bedroom showcases textured white cabinets with a dark walnut wrap.
Photo credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

Timmerman Photography
Sculpture by Mayme Kratz
This is a home we initially built in 1995 and after it sold in 2014 we were commissioned to come back and remodel the interior of the home.
We worked with internationally renowned architect Will Bruder on the initial design on the home. The goal of home was to build a modern hillside home which made the most of the vista upon which it sat. A few ways we were able to achieve this were the unique, floor-to-ceiling glass windows on the side of the property overlooking Scottsdale, a private courtyard off the master bedroom and bathroom, and a custom commissioned sculpture Mayme Kratz.
Stonecreek's particular role in the project were to work alongside both the clients and the architect to make sure we were able to perfectly execute on the vision and design of the project. A very unique component of this house is how truly custom every feature is, all the way from the window systems and the bathtubs all the way down to the door handles and other features.

Add visual interest to a bland space by displaying this complex rug, which features extremely intricate designs and multiple colors. Ovals and diamonds form the main elements of the rug’s interior space, and are filled with small, delicate floral motifs and lines. The rug’s borders feature and interesting linear design which mixes straight and rounded corners for a unique result. Rich reds and dark, blackish blues form the main color elements of this rug; soft roses bright greens, and rich blues add variety and depth. The rug is made of pure wool and was completely made by hand.
Item Number: AP16-1-12-234
Collection: Persian Rug Size: 7.83x9.67
Material: Wool
Knots: 16/16
Color: Black
50% off until March 15, 2014

Framed by mature trees and nestled within Sarasota’s historic McClellan Park, Sunset Place is a home shaped by a deep understanding of, and sensibility for, its setting—reflecting the charm of the neighborhood, the rhythm of downtown living, and the client’s vision of entertaining, connection, and family life. Every decision—from site strategy to spatial flow—was made with intention: to support a lifestyle centered on warmth, community, and a strong sense of place.
At its core, the project is a masterclass in leveraging zoning and code to unlock the full potential of a complex site. Though landlocked, the home lives like waterfront—offering openness, privacy, and expansive sunset views. Placing the pool in the front yard, within the 25-foot setback, redefines the entry experience. It captures the western light and sets a relaxed, resort-like tone from the very first step inside the gate. Paired with a rear-loaded garage, accessed discreetly via the side setback, the layout transforms the site’s limitations into its greatest assets. Architecture and landscape take center stage, while the full buildable envelope is maximized without compromise.
A natural rise of eight feet from front to back—rare in Sarasota—was embraced as an opportunity. Site walls function as both retaining structures and architectural elements, elevating the pool terrace and entry by over four feet to align with the main interior floor level. The result is a fluid connection between indoors and out: kitchen, dining, and living spaces unfold onto the terrace, blurring boundaries and enhancing everyday rituals as well as social gatherings.
Architecturally, the home is coastal contemporary: open yet composed, airy yet grounded. Clarity in the massing tells a story of the inhabitants from the first glance, while the interior planning offers spatial generosity and ease. The interiors echo this sensibility with a palette that is soft, natural, and tactile—serene without being neutral. The landscape design provides a lush tropical frame, softening edges and reinforcing privacy through layered plantings rather than enclosure.
Ultimately, Sunset Place is not defined by any single gesture, but by the way the home reflects its owners. Their gracious, family-centered nature informed every layer of design—resulting in a space that feels deeply personal, tailored for connection and ease, and perfectly suited for gathering, unwinding, and watching the sun slip behind the trees from the comfort of home.

2010 NATIONAL NARI REGIONAL AWARD WINNER
Project Scope
The owners of this 7,000 square foot colonial in Oakton, Virginia, were seeking a multi-level Mediterranean-style indoor/outdoor living space off the back of their home. They turned to Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes for a design solution that would include a stone patio, a second-story deck, a screened-in porch and linking staircases.
While the structure was designed primarily for family dining and entertaining, it also had to accommodate periodic social gatherings of one hundred guests or more. To meet these needs, the project would include a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, several serving counters with permanent refrigeration, and well-delineated socializing and dining zones.
The existing home’s setting offered several impressive assets the new outdoor living area was designed to exploit. The sprawling acreage features old stand trees, wooded paths and a private lake. Beautifully landscaped, it unfolds as an idyllic panorama that naturally draws people to the outdoors.
Challenges
Since the rear elevation was situated on a slope that drops away from the house, the Michael Nash team had to raise the grade two feet within in a 2,000 square foot area extending out from the back of the house. Infrastructure plans also called for a sophisticated drainage system that had to accommodate a whole series of water “runoff” considerations to be integrated into the decking itself. Excavation included constructing retaining walls to bolster the elevated grade—which also had to support a concrete slab, the primary foundation for the entire complex.
Solutions
The ground level decking consists of a 2,000 square foot flagstone patio level with the home’s lower level doors. There is a decorative water fountain mid-patio—an ornate collectible acquired in Florida. Food preparation is concentrated within a specially designed semi-circular wall that creates an “outdoor kitchen” equipped with a 60” Viking barbecue grill, a prep sink, a warming drawer, refrigerator and appropriate storage. There is a granite surfaced dining counter with seating for eight.
Wrought iron railing and approximately 20 decorative columns (some encasing steel vertical supports) are incorporated into the design scheme. Many of the columns house accent lights.
The top level—supported by horizontal steel beams– is a 2,500 square foot deck constructed entirely of Trex decking. The open air decking is, again, directly accessible from rooms on the second level of the house including the kitchen, sunroom and family room.
The platform’s most prominent feature is a U-shaped “kitchenette” with cedar shake shingle roofing. Like its counterpart one level below, the facility is equipped with grill, refrigerator and stainless steel cabinetry.
One portion of the deck has been allocated for a 16’ x 16’ octagonal screened-in porch crowned by a pair of 2’ x 4’ skylights. The porch can be accessed from the home’s conservatory via a set of French doors. With its mosaic tile flooring, stained cedar panel ceiling and honed granite counters, the interior is elegant and calming. Hand-painted stenciling and a wall-mounted water feature provide distinctive detailing.
Finally, the design introduced elements to highlight and reinforce an awareness of the lovely bucolic setting. Fountains and water features combined with textured surfaces and mosaic tiling and backsplashes to present a villa-like ambiance well-suited to the Virginia countryside.
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